Beneath the Surface

chapter 40 : making efforts

Sarah's Backyard – Afternoon

The sun casts a golden hue over the backyard, its light shimmering off the pool's surface. The fountain's gentle sound creates a calming ambiance. Tristan and Stan are seated at a picnic table, surrounded by tools and model airplane parts. Tristan is focused on guiding Stan through the assembly process, his demeanor warm and patient... You can see in him how he makes effort.

Tristan: (holding up a piece) "Alright, buddy, this part goes here. Can you help me put it together?"

Stan: (concentrating) "Like this, Daddy?"

Tristan: (nodding) "Exactly! Just like that. You're getting the hang of it."

Stan: (beaming) "I'm building an airplane, Daddy!"

Tristan: (smiling) "That's right. And once we're done, we can take it outside and see how it flies."

Stan: (excited) "Yay! Can we make it go really high?"

Tristan: (chuckling) "We'll do our best. But remember, it's just a model, so it won't fly too high. Still, it'll be fun to see it in the air."

Stan: (focused on attaching a piece) "What's next?"

Tristan: (gently guiding Stan's hands) "Now we need to add the wings. They go on the sides like this."

Stan: (concentrating) "Okay, I see. Like this?"

Tristan: (affirming) "Perfect! You're doing a great job. You know, it's really nice spending this time with you."

Stan: (glancing up) "I like it too. Daddy, are you going to come over and play with me more?"

Tristan: (pausing, his expression softening) "I'm definitely going to try. I want to be here and make sure we have fun together. It's important to me."

Sarah: (walking over with a tray of snacks) "How's the airplane coming along?"

Tristan: (looking up, smiling) "It's coming together. Stan's been a big help."

Stan: (proudly) "We're making it fly!"

Sarah: (setting down the snacks) "That's awesome. I'm glad to see you two having such a great time."

Tristan: (nodding) "It's been wonderful. Stan's got a real knack for this. I've been thinking a lot about how important it is to be here for both of you."

Sarah: (smiling) "It means a lot to us, Tristan. I appreciate all the effort you're putting in."

Tristan: (looking at Sarah) "I want to show that I'm committed to being a positive presence. It's not just about making up for lost time—it's about building something good for all of us."

Stan: (taking a break to eat) "Daddy, are we going to build more things?"

Tristan: (playfully) "Of course! Maybe next time we can build a rocket or a car. What do you think?"

Stan: (eyes wide) "A rocket! That sounds cool!"

Sarah: (joining in) "It sounds like a plan. We can make it a regular thing."

Tristan: (smiling) "Absolutely. It's important for me to be here and share these moments with you both."

As they continue to work on the model airplane, the afternoon is filled with lighthearted conversation and laughter. The bond between Tristan, Sarah, and Stan strengthens, creating a warm and supportive environment for their growing relationship.